Information Security Analyst salary in Chicago, IL
Median pay, Chicago metro
$125,310/year
about $60.25 an hour full-time
Middle half earns $99,760 – $158,210
Half of information security analysts in the Chicago metro area earn more than $125,310 a year and half earn less. That's 3% lower than the national median of $129,180, and ranks #21 of the 28 big metro areas we track for this job.
Pay range
| Percentile | Yearly | Hourly* |
|---|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $79,460 | $38.20 |
| 25th | $99,760 | $47.96 |
| Median (50th) | $125,310 | $60.25 |
| 75th | $158,210 | $76.06 |
| 90th (top earners) | $174,450 | $83.87 |
*Yearly pay divided by 2,080 hours (40 hours × 52 weeks), the full-time basis BLS uses.
Is your offer fair?
For a information security analyst job in the Chicago metro area, here's how an offer compares:
- Below market under $99,760 ($47.96/hr). Fine for a first job in the field, otherwise worth negotiating.
- Typical $99,760 to $158,210 ($47.96 to $76.06/hr). The middle half of what people in this job earn.
- Strong offer over $158,210 ($76.06/hr). Higher than three quarters of workers here.
Before you accept
- Certifications like Security+, CISSP or CySA+ can raise offers, and some employers pay for the exam.
- Security operations roles often include on-call or shift work. Ask how often, and whether it's paid extra.
- A security clearance can add a lot to pay for government and contractor jobs.
Also watch for the common warning signs in the posting itself: 15 job posting red flags.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, 2025, Chicago metro. Occupation: Information Security Analysts (SOC 15-1212). Figures cover wage and salary workers and don't include bonuses, benefits or overtime.